Menorca Area Guide

Menorca is the second largest of the Balearic islands and is quieter than neighbouring Mallorca which is just 34 km by sea. Menorca has a number of family-friendly resorts with almost as many beaches as Mallorca and Ibiza combined.

Because it has been protected from over development, Menorca is a very green island which is real haven for nature-lovers with pinewoods and fields for the island's 25,000 grazing cattle. Cycle tracks cross the meadows and scrublands, offering some spectacular views of the island and the sea. The north coast of Menorca is rocky and rough with sleepy fishing villages, whilst the south has more holiday resorts with some beautiful beaches and sandy coves which are sheltered by cliffs. To give you the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful island hiring a car is your best option.

The oldest and largest towns in Menorca are Mahon which is the walled capital of the island and is situated at the end of an enormous natural harbour which is also a busy port. The airport is near to Mahon and the town has many impressive architectural features. Ciutadella is the ancient capital at the opposite end of the island and is full of winding streets and old buildings, including several churches.

Quiet holiday resorts and the best beaches are on the south coast of Menorca while more natural coves, wild stretches of beach and traditional fishing villages can be found on the rocky northern shore. The historic Ports of Mahon and harbour of Ciutadella are very different with their fascinating architecture. Our guide has full details on Local Attractions in Menorca

Menorca has fewer beaches than the nearby islands of Mallorca and Ibiza, which tend to be quieter and less crowded with more secluded beaches and coves still to be discovered. Our guide to beaches in Menorca gives you enough information to decide which are the right ones for you.

Son Parc Golf is the only golf course on the island of Menorca. It is an 18 hole championship course which opened in 1977 is deal for beginners and experienced golfers alike. For more details visit our guide to golf courses in Menorca.

Menorcan restaurants, tavernas, cafés and bars serve delicious cuisine based on a combination of fresh produce and home cooking. You will be able to sample the freshest seafood and fish with top quality Spanish fruit and vegetables. We have put together a list of recommended restaurants offering something to suit everyone's taste.

Menorca is a wonderful place to shop with international and local crafts providing some fabulous souvenirs. We have provided some information on shopping in Menorca which tells you where the main shopping areas are, together with a guide to all the markets and when they are held.

If you are planning to explore the area outside of the city centre and play some golf or go to some of the more out of the way beaches then you might consider hiring a car . There are a number of car hire firms based at Mahon Airport who will be pleased to have a vehicle awaiting your arrival. This also cuts down on transfer costs for you and your family.

We have been working in Spain for a number of years and have visited the Island of Menorca several times. To make sure you get full enjoyment from your holiday on this lovely island we have written a Menorca Area Guide which includes the best Shopping Areas in Menorca, Menorca Markets, Golf Courses in Menorca, the different types of Menorca Beaches, recommended Menorca Restaurants and Menorca Local Attractions.